In recognition of the tremendous support offered by the city of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, to USA Triathlon (USAT) over the past five years, the National Governing Body is giving back to the community devastated by the tornadoes that affected much of the south-eastern United States last month.
Tuscaloosa has hosted one of USA Triathlon’s major National Championship events each year since 2007, including the 2008 US Olympic Trials and the 2011 Collegiate National Championship just a few weeks before the tornadoes hit.
USA Triathlon, its staff and corporate partners have developed a significant bond with the community and aim to lend their support through a number of channels:
- The USA Triathlon national office staff members have donated food, clothing and household items to send to Tuscaloosa. Nearly 450 pounds of goods have already been shipped.
- With the assistance of Gold-Level Partner Blue Competition Cycles and Magnolia Disaster Relief, USA Triathlon has provided nearly 2,000 backpacks that will be distributed to Tuscaloosa children through the local school system.
- USA Triathlon Supplier Greenlayer has sent more than 1,700 T-shirts for distribution to Tuscaloosa-area residents.
- USA Triathlon and Gold-Level Partner Gatorade will provide sports drinks to volunteer aid workers.
Through the ‘Rally for Recovery – USA Triathlon Supports Tuscaloosa’ campaign, imATHLETE.com, USAT’s official online registration partner, is offering individuals the opportunity to make financial contributions that will provide new clothing to the local community. Online donations can now be made through a special website created by imATHLETE.com.
USA Triathlon will continue to work with its corporate partners to expand upon the goods and services provided to Tuscaloosa.
“The Tuscaloosa community has embraced USA Triathlon and thousands of multisport athletes with open arms in recent years,” said USA Triathlon CEO Rob Urbach. “Our organisation and its corporate partners are committed to aiding this city in its time of need. A donation of any amount can help rebuild this community, which has given so much to our sport.”
